Toronto’s small and medium-sized cultural facilities will have the opportunity
to receive funding to make much-needed improvements and repairs to their
physical infrastructures, thanks to the Culture Build Grants Program.

Established in 2002, the Culture Build Grant Program was designed to enhance
the cultural experience of Toronto residents and visitors through building
improvements, making venues more welcoming and accessible to audiences. In
2004, 11 cultural facilities grants were awarded. This year, Toronto City
Council has earmarked $250,000 for the program.

Applicants to the Culture Build Grants Program must meet the following
eligibility criteria:
(a) incorporated as a not-for-profit organization;
(b) located in the City of Toronto;
(c) have been in existence for a minimum of three years; and
(d) own the facility or have at least five years remaining on their current
lease at the time of applying for the program.

Funding is available for major repairs, renovations or improvements to
buildings that will bring the facilities into a state of good repair. Priority
will be given to applications from not-for-profit organizations that lease or
own small to medium-sized performing arts facilities (i.e. 500 seats or less)
and are facing emergency repairs or health and safety repair projects.

The program does not support the following:
(a) regular building maintenance costs;
(b) feasibility studies;
(c) cost of purchasing or building a facility; and
(d) City-owned facilities.

"The Culture Build Grants Program is a welcome show of support for the city’s
smaller cultural venues, helping them to set the stage for exceptional
performances," says Rita Davies, Executive Director, Toronto Culture. "It
recognizes the important role that culture plays in shaping the city’s future,
and is timely as we prepare to launch the ‘TO Live with Culture’ celebrations
in September 2005."

Deadline for submissions is Friday, September 30, 2005 at 5 p.m. For more
information about the Culture Build Grants Program and to request a grant
application, contact Lori Martin at 416-392-5225.